August 5, 2021
Think Independently, Act Collectively
Very briefly, support does not equal complacency. In our efforts to support the Head of School and school leadership, boards may become hesitant to 'question' initiatives or decisions presented by school leadership. But as part of your board duty of inquiry, question you must - respectfully and appropriately. Remember as a board member, your duty of loyalty is to the organization first, not any one employee, ie, the HOS.
Boards of independent schools are often blamed for a lot of things that go awry in schools, including the firing or departures of HOS. The purpose of this week's Chair Post is to remind you that while boards must demonstrate support for the HOS, that doesn't mean don't disagree, raise concerns, ask questions, or voice an alternate opinion in the board room.
Think Independently and Act Collectively
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Constructively challenge and support the chief executive, administration, and committees. Think for yourself, reach your own conclusions, and share your perspective productively.
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Speak up on important issues, even if they are uncomfortable or unpopular. The board and institution lose out—or may even be put at risk—when trustees remain silent.
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Express your concerns diplomatically to the appropriate person(s) at an appropriate time. Be intentional about what you communicate, how, when, where, and to whom.
As an individual trustee, you may not agree with every decision that gets made, but you should be confident that there was a good process for coming to that decision.
